The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved the arraignment of Senator Andy Uba, a former representative of Anambra South Senatorial District, on charges of alleged fraud involving N400 million.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, presiding over the case, scheduled February 18, 2025, as the date for Uba and two other co-defendants to formally enter their pleas.
The charges, brought forward by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, are linked to allegations that Uba and his co-defendants conspired to defraud Mr. George Uboh. Uboh’s detailed petition to the police triggered the investigation. Alongside Uba, Crystal Chidinma Uba and Benjamin Etu are named as defendants, while a fourth individual, identified as Hajiya Fatima, is reportedly at large.
The accusations center on claims that the defendants falsely promised to secure the position of Managing Director for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for Uboh or his nominee in exchange for N400 million. Prosecutors allege that the defendants knowingly misled Uboh and used the funds for personal purposes. These actions reportedly violate multiple sections of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act, 2006.
Uboh supported his allegations with documentary evidence and voice recordings, including specific claims:
According to Uboh, “Andy Ubah stated unequivocally to me that he has perfected a way to give NDDC Managing Directorship to any candidate who brings N400,000,000.
“That if the appointment does not occur, he will refund the money.
“I nominated my sister, Honourable (Engr.) Doris Uboh, who by profession is qualified to be NDDC MD.
“Andy Ubah provided two accounts and instructed a transfer of N200,000,000 each into the accounts.
“I instructed another sister of mine, Princess Engr. Ify Akanmode, who is a business partner and whose account I had some funds, to do the transfers.
“Till date, Andy Ubah has promised to pay and has not,” the petitioner alleged.
The prosecution revealed that six witnesses are prepared to testify against the defendants. However, the legal process faced delays due to Uba and the other defendants allegedly evading service of the court summons and filing lawsuits to prevent their trial. With those barriers now removed, the court will proceed with the case.
Justice Ekwo has adjourned proceedings until February 2025 for the defendants’ arraignment.
